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South Africa Immigration Services

Whether your company is sending employees to South Africa or expanding outside of South Africa to destinations around the world—Fragomen is here to help. Our experienced South Africa immigration professionals partner with you to develop immigration strategies that help you meet inbound immigration needs and manage your regional or global immigration program.

South African immigration law provides many solutions to help employers of foreign nationals. Requirements, processing times, employment eligibility, and benefits for accompanying family members vary by visa category. Government processing times vary across consular posts.

A normal Visitor's Visa allows the holder to enter South Africa for holiday or business purposes. Depending on nationality, this visa is either issued upon arrival at the port of entry or must be applied for abroad prior to travel. The visa is valid for up to a maximum of 90 days.

The Section 11(2) Visa is available when the foreign national’s activities meet the definition of work, and the sponsoring entity can demonstrate that the short-term work is urgent and necessary. The Section 11(2) Visa can only be issued once per calendar year with the option of one extension in-country.

The main work authorization category is the Intracompany Transfer Work Visa, which is valid for four years. There are no labor market testing or minimum salary requirements.

There are two categories that require permanent offers of employment: Critical Skills Work Visa and General Work Visa.

The Critical Skills Visa is suitable for applicants who possess skills that are categorized as critical and can be issued for up to five years.

The General Work Visa requires employers to​ conduct a labor test to confirm that a South African citizen cannot fill the position.

Detailed Immigration Snapshots, Document Lists and Process Guides are available to clients on request.

Fragomen in South Africa is Fragomen Africa (Pty) Ltd., an immigration consultancy.